UBCNews - Business - Best Lake Tahoe Activities: Top Tips For Winter & Year-Round Family Adventures

Episode Date: January 13, 2026

So, have you ever thought about Lake Tahoe as more than just a ski destination? Because we're getting into something really cool today - the incredible variety of activities you can enjoy in Tahoe, whether it's winter or any other season. Tahoe Lakeshore Lodge & Spa City: South Lake Tahoe Address: 930 Balbijou Road Website: https://tahoelakeshorelodge.com/

So have you ever thought about Lake Tahoe as more than just a ski destination? Because we're getting into something really cool today, the incredible variety of activities you can enjoy in Tahoe, whether it's winter or any other season. Absolutely. And I think that's the biggest misconception people have, right? They hear Lake Tahoe in winter and immediately think skiing or snowboarding. But there's this whole world of adventure beyond the slopes that a lot of tourists miss out on. Exactly. So let's start with. winter activities that aren't skiing. What are some of your favorites? Well, snowshoeing is fantastic and really accessible for families. You don't need any special skills. If you can walk, you can

snow shoe. Places like North Tahoe Regional Park have trails where you can snow shoe and cross-country ski. It's peaceful. You're surrounded by this gorgeous winter scenery, and it's way less crowded than the ski resorts. I love that. And, um, cross-country skiing is another. option, right? How does that compare to downhill? Oh, it's completely different. Cross country is slower, more meditative. You're gliding through forested trails or open meadows instead of racing down a mountain. Lake Tahoe has so many groomed trails and different places to test your skills. It's beginner-friendly, too. Mm-hmm. I hear you. Now what about ice skating? I've heard Heavenly Village has something special. Yes. Heavenly Village has something special. Yes. Heavenly Village has

an outdoor ice skating rink during winter that's perfect for family fun. You've got the lights, the music, snow falling around you. It creates this magical atmosphere. It's one of those activities that feels more special in winter when you're skating outside. Oh, definitely. Mountain hot tubbing while snow falls around you is an experience everyone should have. Most hotels and vacation rentals have them. The key is to go outside at night. The low light pollution means you can see tons of stars. Bring a warm hat for your ears and just soak it all in. I remember my first time doing this after a long day of snowshoeing. I looked up and thought I'd never seen so many stars in my life.

It was like the sky just opened up. That sounds incredible. Now, speaking of those of prey activities and unwinding after a day outdoors, let's talk about the whole social scene. But first, a quick word from our sponsor. Planning your Lake Tahoe getaway? consider Tahoe Lakeshore Lodge and Spa, a beachfront resort on the South Shore. The resort features lake and mountain views from all hotel lodge rooms and condos,

plus a private beach, lakefront pool, and hot tub, perfect for year-round relaxation. Centrally located near skiing, hiking, and marine activities with live entertainment throughout the year. Find out more at Tahoe LakeshoreLodge.com. Picking up on those appred activities, how do you recommend tourists experience the brewery and entertainment scene in South Lake Tahoe. South Lake Tahoe has this great walkable entertainment area with breweries and bars that are perfect for unwinding. Even if you didn't ski, you can totally participate in a press ski culture.

The fire pits, the mulled drinks, wood-fired pizzas. It's the fun part without the bruises. Ha! I like that approach. And honestly, who needs sore legs when you can just go straight to the good stuff, right? Exactly. Now let's talk about some winter spots that might be less crowded. Donner Memorial State Park is wonderful and tends to be quieter in winter, though it still provides great winter activities. People get a bit intimidated by the snow up there, so you often have more space to roam around.

The lake, the surrounding trails, it's really peaceful and beautiful. Right. And what about Emerald Bay? Can you actually visit that in winter? You can, though the trails can get icy, so you'll be. want shoes with good grip. The Vikings' home mansion is closed for tours in winter, but you can still hike down to Emerald Bay and see the exterior of the castle. It's serene and empty during that time. I actually prefer visiting then because you avoid the summer crowds completely. That's a great point. And for everyone listening, have you ever considered visiting popular spots during the offseason to skip the crowds? It can really change your experience. Absolutely. Now let's shift gears and

and talk about year-round activities. What can tourists do outside of winter? Yes, please. Because Lake Tahoe really is more than a winter destination, isn't it? Oh, Lake Tahoe really shines in every season. And I mean that. You can visit any time of year and find something amazing. Hiking and biking are huge in the warmer months.

The trails give you incredible scenic views of the lake and mountains. You've got water activities too, kayaking, paddleboarding. Fall is actually a great time for hiking because the temperatures are mild and you get that beautiful foliage. So it's truly a four-season destination? Exactly. That's what makes Tahoe special. You're not limited to one type of vacation. Whether you want adventure or relaxation, winter sports, or summer beaches, it's all available. Lake Tahoe has activities for all seasons. That's the real takeaway here. Let's talk lodging for a second, because that affects the whole issue.

experience. What's the difference between North Lake and South Lake? Great question. North Lake Tahoe tends to be quieter and more nature-focused. You'll find cozy cabins and a peaceful vibe there. South Lake Tahoe provides a more vibrant atmosphere with nightlife, breweries, casino access, and that walkable heavenly village area. It's more lively, better for groups. Both are wonderful. It just depends on what kind of trip you're planning. That's really helpful context. Before we wrap up, what's one thing you'd tell someone planning their first winter trip to Tahoe? I'd tell them to try the non-skiing activities. I remember the first time I went snowshoeing in an actual blizzard. I thought I was crazy, but it ended up being this incredible, peaceful experience. Don't limit yourself to what you

think a mountain vacation should be. Try something new. You might surprise yourself. That's beautiful. advice. And to everyone listening, whether you're a skier or not, Lake Tahoe has adventures for every type of traveler. The key is being open to the possibilities and willing to step outside your comfort zone. Absolutely. The mountain is calling, and there are so many ways to answer.